How could I not be intrigued by Granbazán Albariño Don Álvaro de Bazán 2015 ($50)? This single-vineyard and six-year-old Albariño from Rias Baixas elegantly proves that Albariño can have aging power. We’re all familiar with the fresh charms of young Albariño, but when these wines are carefully crafted with aging in mind, they’re something special. Sourced from a single plot, the Albariño grapes were fermented with indigenous yeasts in stainless steel and aged on the lees for 36 months. The flirty, fresh, and pretty essence of Albariño remains, but extended aging takes the flavors and textures to the next level. Peach, citrus, salinity, honeysuckle, chalky minerality, round and luscious – this vino is pretty fantastic. I also recommend Granbazán Etiqueta Verde 2020 ($18). This classic expression of a young Rias Baixas Albariño is an elegant thirst quencher on a steamy day.
Watch my IG Live chat with Bodegas Granbazán winemaker Diego Ríos to learn more about their wonderful wines and Rias Baixas.
